Fehu
Fehu is the first rune of the Elder Futhark. Its reconstructed Proto-Germanic name means “cattle” or “livestock” and, by extension, movable wealth.
Understanding Fehu in a modern context does not require disconnecting it from those roots. Instead, we can look for their modern equivalent. Wealth today is not limited to money or cash. It also includes assets: a home, property, investments, tools, possessions, and anything else that holds or produces value.
Not so far removed from cattle after all.
Fehu also has a social dimension. In early Germanic societies, wealth existed within networks of family, inheritance, obligation, exchange, and status. Resources could support not only the person who possessed them but also a household and future generations.
In a modern reading, I therefore consider Fehu in both material and social terms. Money and property are obvious expressions of wealth, but reputation, relationships, access, and influence can also function as valuable resources. In an age of social media and online personalities, influence itself can become an asset.
Fehu’s position as the first rune may also suggest a beginning, foundation, or initial resource from which something else can grow. This can be especially relevant when it appears alongside other runes from the first ætt, or row: Uruz, Thurisaz, Ansuz, Raidho, Kenaz, Gebo, and Wunjo. Within my reading practice, I also consider patterns created by runes occupying corresponding positions in the other ættir: Hagalaz and Tiwaz.
Finally, Fehu asks us to consider both the benefits and dangers of wealth. The Norwegian and Icelandic rune poems describe wealth as a source of conflict among relatives. That warning can be especially relevant when Fehu appears blocked, reversed, or in a difficult position: resources may become sources of greed, instability, possessiveness, debt, conflict, or fear of loss.
In a reading, Fehu often draws attention to wealth, resources, ownership, value, or security. Its position and the runes surrounding it help reveal what form that wealth takes, how it is being used, and whether it is supporting growth or creating conflict.
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